Recycling....https://agmetalminer.com/2024/07/09/china-tightening...

Recycling....


https://agmetalminer.com/2024/07/09/china-tightening-rare-earths-further/

Rare Earths MMI: What China Further Tightening Rare Earths Means for the U.S.

Jennifer Kary | Posted on July 9, 2024

The Rare Earths MMI (Monthly Metals Index) took a steep dive in price action after a month of relative stability, dropping 14.4%. Terbium (both metal and oxide) yanked the index down tremendously, falling more than 16%. However, the rare earths index could yet experience some rebound from now until October, when China’s recent set of brand new rare earth restrictions are set to take effect (stay posted on shifts in the rare earths market due to China’s new export restrictions with MetalMiner’s weekly newsletter).

What Do China’s Revised Rare Earths Restrictions Mean for U.S. Companies?

China recently unveiled a fresh set of restrictions designed to further tighten control over its exports of rare earth elements. The new rules adhere to earlier prohibitions regarding the export of germanium and gallium, which are necessary for the production of microchips.

The implications for the U.S. could prove substantial, as the country is one of the primary users of rare earth elements for high-tech and defence sectors. These new regulations likely mean more supply chain interruptions and expenses. Since China’s domination of the rare earth market creates a bottleneck, many experts expect the new rules to raise prices internationally.

As a result, American businesses will likely need to step up their efforts to boost home production and diversify their supply network of rare earths. The circumstance also emphasizes the urgency of developing other supply networks, recycling technology, and material alternatives.

How Can Rare Earth Sourcing Companies Lighten the Blow?

U.S. businesses should look for suppliers outside of China to deal with this issue. For example, building connections with producers of rare earth elements in nations such as Canada and Australia can help reduce the dangers brought on by China’s new policies. Generally, diversification helps to lessen reliance on a single supplier and guarantees supply continuity.

Additionally, ramping up domestic manufacturing of rare earths continues to gain traction. Therefore, businesses should work with American mining companies to finance the construction of regional rare earth processing and mining facilities. This action can help strengthen the supply chain against interruptions from abroad while also aligning with national interests.

Other Solutions

One sustainable option is recycling rare earths from items that are nearing the end of their lifespan. Investing in cutting-edge recycling methods to recover rare earth elements from discarded electronics and industrial equipment can go a long way toward reducing reliance on imported resources.